
The blue nail theory according to TikTok
What does the color of our nail polish say about us?
January 17th, 2025
Let's forget the nude shades of soap nails, the luscious mocha mousse, or the sophisticated Italian Plum: the color everyone is talking about is blue, interpreted in all its versions—from the delicate Blueberry Milk, worn a few summers ago by Sofia Richie to denim-like shades and even midnight blue, recently flaunted by Hailey Bieber. On TikTok, blue nails are taking over red as the new classic. Viral videos suggest which shade to choose, whether to go for a matte, glossy, metallic finish, or even dare with a 3D effect for a special occasion. Among the many trends flooding the platform, the most popular videos feature the hashtag #bluenailtheory, where a blue or light blue manicure is interpreted as a visual indicator of inner change, an expression of emotional state, or even a code to communicate one’s relationship status.
@ebthedigitalnomad Safe to say, he is clueless about the blye nails theory #bluenails #bluenailstheory #bluenailsmeaning #bluenail #bluenails #fyp original sound - Eb Finley | Nomad Generation
@framar Do you you think they passed or failed? #framar #hairtok #hairstylist #hairstylisthumor #bluenailtheory Together Together - Courtney Farren & BØRNS
@sabrinaleasmith #stitch with @notgraciefedorko original sound - sab
@hollie.thompson he literally says light blue everytime I stg #fyp #fypシ #MyLevisMyVibe #trend #viral #lightbluenails #lightblue #boyfriend #nails original sound - hollie t
The Blue Nail Theory, Explained
Although it has been discussed for years, the popularity of blue nails, especially in their softer hues, may be due to their trendy status among celebrities and on runways. Blue nails have become "a fun and carefree way to signal that someone is taken or in a relationship." Advocates of the blue nail theory believe that women in relationships, consciously or not, often wear blue nail polish, and more intriguingly, that men prefer this color. According to numerous videos, if a woman asks her partner or another man what color she should paint her nails, there’s a good chance he’ll say blue or light blue. What began as a coincidence has gained traction on TikTok, resulting in a challenge where friends, boyfriends, colleagues, and relatives are asked to confirm the theory. Those who get the expected response believe that sporting a blue manicure is a subtle indicator of one’s relationship status—a small detail signaling to the world that one is happily taken.
The Psychology of Blue
Blue is a beloved color in both fashion and make-up. Unsurprisingly, it has also made its way onto our nails. Its popularity is often attributed to the emotions and sensations it conveys. According to color psychology, blue symbolizes depth and wisdom and is often associated with tranquility, trust, and serenity. Surrounding oneself with blue—or wearing it—is thought to instill a sense of calm, loyalty, spirituality, and transcendence in oneself and others, as if a hint of blue or light blue could soothe the spirit and alleviate unconscious fears. Others believe that choosing blue communicates boldness, renewal, and freedom. Nail artist Mi Nguyen praises its anti-stress properties and highlights how, over time and thanks to certain celebrities, blue nail polish has evolved from an eccentric and alternative choice to a mark of elegance. £Blue used to be considered a bit crazy, but it can actually be very chic and classy,£ she says. Leatrice Eiseman, director of the Pantone Color Institute and a color consultant for various industries, including fashion and cosmetics, confirmed to WWD that blue remains one of the most popular colors regardless of gender, likely because "it is often associated with positive memories from early childhood, such as time spent at the beach or a beautiful bright summer sky." So, while choosing one nail color over another might seem like a frivolous detail, it can reflect a deeper connection to ourselves and the world.
@selleb.sisters What your nail color says about you #whatyourfavoritesaysaboutyou #nailsoftiktok #rednailtheory original sound - Selleb Sisters
@professionalnailss Guys pay attention #nailcolourmeaning #fortheboys #nails #foryou Candy - Doja Cat
@lushipop Part 4 #nails #pressonnails #nailart #nailcolourmeaning #naildesigns #pressons yeah hot people use this sound - cxaluv
Nail Polish Codes: What Your Nail Color Says About You
Blue isn’t the only color TikTok associates with relationship status or the wearer's personality. Do you remember the red nail theory, which claimed that women with red manicures attract more male attention? Or the black nail theory, suggesting allure, sensuality, and a touch of feminine mystery? When it comes to relationships, many TikTokers believe that single people—especially those who have recently become single—are more likely to paint their nails white. In contrast, pink and purple nail polishes indicate someone is in the early stages of dating without any formal commitment. Meanwhile, a combination of blue and white nails represents a complicated relationship. Is it true? Probably not. It’s just a fun little game that takes us back to childhood, exploring colors and the multifaceted world of interpersonal relationships.